Power tool operation recording and playback

ABSTRACT

Systems and methods of operating power tools. The method includes receiving a command to start a recording mode at a first electronic processor of a first power tool, and receiving at the first electronic processor, a measured parameter from a sensor of the first power tool while a first motor of the first power tool is operating. The method also includes generating a recorded motor parameter by recording the measured parameter, on a first memory of the first power tool, when the first power tool operates in the recording mode, and transmitting, with a first transceiver of the first power tool, the recorded motor parameter. The method further includes receiving the recorded motor parameter at an external device, transmitting the recorded motor parameter to a second power tool via the external device, and receiving the recorded motor parameter via a second transceiver of the second power tool.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationNo. 62/220,627, filed on Sep. 18, 2015, the entire contents of which arehereby incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to power tools, such as powerdrills or impact drivers.

SUMMARY

In one embodiment, the invention provides a method for operating powertools that includes receiving a command to start a recording mode at afirst electronic processor of a first power tool, and receiving at thefirst electronic processor, a measured parameter from a sensor of thefirst power tool while a first motor of the first power tool isoperating. The method also includes generating a recorded motorparameter by recording the measured parameter, on a first memory of thefirst power tool, when the first power tool operates in the recordingmode, and transmitting, with a first transceiver of the first powertool, the recorded motor parameter. The method further includesreceiving the recorded motor parameter at an external device,transmitting the recorded motor parameter to a second power tool via theexternal device, and receiving the recorded motor parameter via a secondtransceiver of the second power tool.

In another embodiment, the invention provides a power tool system thatincludes a first power tool, an external device, and a second powertool. The first power tool includes a first motor, a sensor coupled tothe first motor and configured to measure a parameter of the firstmotor. The first power tool also includes a first electronic processorcoupled to the first motor and the sensor, and a first transceivercoupled to the first electronic processor. The first electronicprocessor configured to receive a command to start a recording mode, andgenerate a recorded motor parameter by recording the measured parameterwhile the first motor is operating and the first power tool is in therecording mode. The first transceiver is configured to transmit therecorded motor parameter to the external device. The external device isin communication with the first power tool, and includes a devicetransceiver. The device transceiver is configured to receive therecorded motor parameter from the first power tool, and transmit therecorded motor parameter to a second power tool. The second power toolis in communication with the external device, and includes a secondtransceiver and a second electronic processor. The second transceiver isconfigured to receive the recorded motor parameter from the externaldevice. The second electronic processor is configured to store therecorded motor parameter.

In one embodiment, the invention provides a power tool including amotor, a sensor coupled to the motor, a transceiver, and an electronicprocessor. The sensor is configured to measure a parameter of the motor.The electronic processor is coupled to the motor, the sensor, and thetransceiver, and is configured to receive, from an external device viathe transceiver, a command to start a recording mode. The electronicprocessor is also configured to generate a recorded motor parameter byrecording the measured parameter while the motor is operating and thepower tool is in the recording mode, and transmit, via the transceiver,the recorded motor parameter to the external device.

In some instances, the power tool further includes a mode selectorswitch configured to receive a user mode selection, the user modeselection indicating an operating mode selected from a plurality ofoperating modes. In some instances, the processor is configured toreceive the motor parameter from the external device as part of a toolprofile; assign the tool profile to one mode of the plurality ofoperating modes rendering the one mode a playback mode; and operate themotor in accordance with the motor parameter when the mode selectorswitch indicates selection of the playback mode and upon receipt of anactivation signal from a trigger of the power tool. In some instances,the motor parameter has a duration and, while the power tool is in theplayback mode and the trigger is in the depressed state, the controlleris configured to stop operating the motor based on the recorded motorparameter when the duration ends. In some instances, the motor parameterincludes at least one selected from the group consisting of a duty cycleindicating trigger pull, a motor speed, a motor torque, a motor power,and a number of impact activations. In some instances, the processor isconfigured to begin to record the motor parameter for a predeterminedtime period upon at least one selected from the group consisting ofentering the recording mode, receiving an activation signal from atrigger of the power tool, and receiving a start request from theexternal device. In some instances, the processor is configured to stoprecording the motor parameter upon at least one selected from the groupconsisting of detecting a release of the trigger and receiving a stoprequest from the external device.

In another embodiment, the invention provides a method of operating apower tool including a motor, a communication controller, and aprocessor. The method includes forming a communication link between thecommunication controller of the power tool and an external device. Themethod also includes entering, by the processor, a recording mode basedon a signal received from the external device over the communicationlink. The method further includes recording, by the processor, a motorparameter while the power tool is in the recording mode and the motor isoperating to generate a recorded motor parameter. The method furtherincludes transmitting, by the communication controller, the motorparameter recorded during operation of the power tool in the recordingmode to the external device.

In some instances, the method includes receiving, by a mode selectorswitch of the power tool, a user mode selection. The user mode selectionindicates an operating mode selected from a plurality of operatingmodes. In some instances, the method includes receiving, by theprocessor, the motor parameter from the external device as part of atool profile; assigning the tool profile to one mode of the plurality ofoperating modes rendering the one mode a playback mode; and operatingthe motor in accordance with the motor parameter when the mode selectorswitch indicates selection of the playback mode and upon receipt of anactivation signal from a trigger of the power tool. In some instances,the motor parameter has a duration and, while the power tool is in theplayback mode and the trigger is in the depressed state, the controlleris configured to stop operating the motor based on the recorded motorparameter when the duration ends. In some instances, the motor parameterincludes at least one selected from the group consisting of a duty cycleindicating trigger pull, a motor speed, a motor torque, a motor power,and a number of impact activations. In some instances, the processor isconfigured to begin to record the motor parameter for a predeterminedtime period upon at least one selected from the group consisting ofentering the recording mode, receiving an activation signal from atrigger of the power tool, and receiving a start request from theexternal device. In some instances, the processor is configured to stoprecording the motor parameter upon at least one selected from the groupconsisting of detecting a release of the trigger and receiving a stoprequest from the external device. In some instances, the motor parametercovers a first time period in which the motor is operating in responseto depression of the trigger; a second time period in which the motor isinactive in response to release of the trigger; and a third time periodin which the motor is operating in response to another depression of thetrigger.

Other aspects of the invention will become apparent by consideration ofthe detailed description and accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a tool according to one embodiment ofthe invention.

FIG. 2 is a side view of the tool shown in FIG. 1 with a portion of atool housing removed.

FIG. 3 illustrates a direction switch of the tool shown in FIG. 1 in aFORWARD position.

FIG. 4 illustrates the direction switch of the tool shown in FIG. 1 in aREVERSE position.

FIG. 5 illustrates the direction switch of the tool shown in FIG. 1 in aNEUTRAL position.

FIG. 6 illustrates a block diagram of the power tool shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 illustrates a block diagram of a communication controller of thepower tool shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 8 illustrates a schematic diagram of a communication systemincluding the power tool shown in FIG. 1.

FIGS. 9-11 illustrate exemplary screenshots of a user interface of anexternal device shown in FIG. 8.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a method of transferring a recordedmotor parameter from a first power tool to a second power tool.

FIG. 13 illustrates a schematic diagram of a communication systemincluding a first power tool and a second power tool.

FIGS. 14-19 illustrate operational schematic diagrams of the tool shownin FIG. 1.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating one exemplary method of operation ofthe tool shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 21 illustrates an exemplary screenshot of a user interface of theexternal device shown in FIG. 8.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating a second exemplary method ofoperation of the tool shown in FIG. 1.

FIGS. 23A-B illustrate exemplary start and stop actuators generated bythe user interface of the external device shown in FIG. 8.

FIGS. 24A-B illustrate a speed selector switch of the tool shown in FIG.1.

FIG. 25 is a flowchart illustrating a third exemplary method ofoperation of the tool shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 26 is a side view of the tool according to another embodiment ofthe invention.

FIG. 27 illustrated a mode pad of the power tool shown in FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before any embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it isto be understood that the invention is not limited in its application tothe details of construction and the arrangement of components set forthin the following description or illustrated in the following drawings.The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced orof being carried out in various ways.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a power tool 100 in the form of animpact driver for illustrative purposes, but which may be another powertool such as a power drill, an impact driver, a power saw, an angledriver, etc.). The tool 100 includes a tool housing 105 defining a bodyportion 110 and a handle 115. The body portion 110 of the tool housing105 includes a top surface 120, a bottom surface 125, side surfaces 130,135, a front surface 140, and a rear surface 145. FIG. 2 illustrates thetool 100 with a portion of the tool housing 105 removed. The toolhousing 105 further includes a wall 150 defining an exterior surface 155and an interior surface 160 of the housing 105. The interior surface 160defines a cavity 162 within the body portion 110.

A printed circuit board (PCB) 165 and a motor 170 are located within thecavity 162 of the body portion 110. The motor 170 is coupled to theinterior surface 160 via a motor mount. The PCB 165 is electricallycoupled to the motor 170 and includes electrical and electroniccomponents that are operable to control the tool 100. In the illustratedembodiment, the PCB 165 includes an electronic processor 180 (FIG. 6)for controlling operation of the tool 100.

The motor 170 is a multi-speed, brushless direct-current (BLDC) motor.As is commonly known, BLDC motors include a stator, a permanent magnetrotor, and an electronic commutator. The electronic commutator typicallyincludes, among other things, a programmable device (e.g., amicrocontroller, a digital signal processor, or a similar controller)having a processor and a memory. The programmable device of the BLDCmotor uses software stored in the memory to control the electriccommutator. The electric commutator then provides the appropriateelectrical energy to the stator in order to rotate the permanent magnetrotor at a desired speed. In some embodiments, the electronic processor180 acts as the programmable device of the motor 170. In otherembodiments, the programmable device is separate from the electronicprocessor 180. In other embodiments of the motor 170, the motor 170 canbe a variety of other types of multi-speed or variable-speed motors,including but not limited to, a brush direct-current motor, a steppermotor, a synchronous motor, an induction motor, a vector-driven motor, aswitched reluctance motor, and other DC or AC motors. The motor 170 isused to drive a working element 185 (FIG. 2). In the illustratedembodiment, the working element 185 is located on the front surface 140of the body portion 110. In the illustrated embodiment the workingelement 185 is a drill chuck, but other types of tools, such as anglegrinders, saws, etc., will use different working elements.

In the illustrated embodiment, the handle 115 extends downwardly fromthe bottom surface 125 of the body portion 110 such that the tool 100has a pistol-style grip. A battery receptacle 190 is located at a distalend of the handle 115, and a trigger mechanism 195 is positioned on thehandle 115 proximate the body portion 110.

The battery receptacle 190 receives a battery 200 (FIG. 6), whichprovides power to the tool 100. In some embodiments, the battery 200 isa rechargeable lithium-ion battery. In other embodiments, the battery200 may have a chemistry other than lithium-ion such as, for example,nickel cadmium, nickel metal-hydride, etc. Additionally oralternatively, the battery 200 may be a non-rechargeable battery. Insome embodiments, the battery 200 is a power tool battery including apack housing containing one or more battery cells and a latchingmechanism for selectively securing the battery 200 to the batteryreceptacle 190. In another embodiment, the battery 200 is mountedexternally to the handle 115. In another embodiment, the battery 200 ismounted below the handle 115. In another embodiment, an electrical cordprovides power to the tool 100.

Referring to FIGS. 2-5, the trigger mechanism 195 includes a trigger205, a direction switch 210, and an electrical switch 215. In theillustrated embodiment, the trigger 205 extends partially down a lengthof the handle 115; however, in other embodiments the trigger 205 extendsdown the entire length of the handle 115 or may be positioned elsewhereon the tool 100. The trigger 205 is moveably coupled to the handle 115such that the trigger 205 moves with respect to the tool housing 105.The trigger 205 includes an interior portion 230 and an exterior portion235, which is accessible to the user. The interior portion 230 iscoupled to a push rod 240, which is engageable with the electricalswitch 215. The exterior portion 235 of the trigger 205 moves in a firstdirection 245 towards the handle 115, when the trigger 205 is depressedby the user. The exterior portion 235 moves in a second direction 250,away from the handle 115, when the trigger 205 is released by the user.When the trigger 205 is depressed by the user, the push rod 240activates the electrical switch 215, and when the trigger 205 isreleased by the user, the electrical switch 215 is deactivated.

In the illustrated embodiment, the electrical switch 215 is apush-button electrical switch positioned within the handle 115. Theelectrical switch 215 includes a push button 255 and electricalcontacts. When the push button 255 is activated, such as by the push rod240, the electrical contacts are in a CLOSED position. When theelectrical contacts are in the CLOSED position, electrical current issupplied from the battery to the motor 170, via the electronic processor180. When the push button 255 is not activated, the electrical contactsare in the OPEN position. When the electrical contacts are in the OPENposition, electrical current is not supplied from the battery to themotor 170. Although the electrical switch 215 is illustrated as apush-button electrical switch with contacts, other types of electricalswitches may be used with the tool 100. For example, in someembodiments, the electrical switch 215 may be activated by, for example,a position sensor (e.g., a Hall-Effect sensor) that relays informationabout the relative position of the trigger 205. The electrical switch215 outputs a signal indicative of the position of the trigger 205.

The direction switch 210 is located above the trigger 205 and below thebody portion 110 of the tool 100. The direction switch 210 is slidinglycoupled to the handle 115. As shown in FIGS. 3-5, the direction switch210 includes a first side 260 and a second side 265. The directionswitch 210 controls the directional mode of operation of the motor 170(e.g., FORWARD, REVERSE, and NEUTRAL) by sending a signal, based on theposition of the direction switch 210, to the electronic processor 180.As shown in FIG. 3, when the first side 260 of the direction switch 210is fully depressed, the direction switch 210 is in a first position.When the direction switch 210 is in the first position, the mode ofoperation for motor 170 is in the FORWARD direction. As shown in FIG. 4,when the second side 265 of the direction switch 210 is fully depressed,the direction switch 210 is in a second position, the second positionbeing opposite the first position. When the direction switch 210 is inthe second position, the mode of operation of the motor 170 is in theREVERSE direction. As shown in FIG. 5, when the direction switch 210 isin a third position, neither the first side 260 or second side 265 isfully depressed, and the mode of operation of the motor 170 is NEUTRAL.

FIG. 6 is an electrical schematic of the tool 100 including theelectronic processor 180. As shown in FIG. 6, the power tool 100 alsoincludes a mode pad 270, a switching network 305, sensors 310,indicators 315, a battery pack interface 320, a power input unit 325, awireless communication controller 330, and a back-up power source 335.The battery pack interface 320 is coupled to the electronic processor180 and coupled to the battery pack 200. The battery pack interface 320includes a combination of mechanical (e.g., the battery receptacle 190)and electrical components configured to and operable for interfacing(e.g., mechanically, electrically, and communicatively connecting) thepower tool 100 with the battery pack 200. The battery pack interface 320is coupled to the power input unit 325. The battery pack interface 320transmits the power received from the battery pack 200 to the powerinput unit 325. The power input unit 325 includes active and/or passivecomponents (e.g., voltage step-down controllers, voltage converters,rectifiers, filters, etc.) to regulate or control the power receivedthrough the battery pack interface 320 and to the wireless communicationcontroller 330 and electronic processor 180.

The switching network 305 enables the electronic processor 180 tocontrol the operation of the motor 170. Generally, when the trigger 205is depressed as indicated by an output of the electrical switch 215,electrical current is supplied from the battery pack interface 320 tothe motor 170, via the switching network 305. When the trigger 205 isnot depressed, electrical current is not supplied from the battery packinterface 320 to the motor 170.

In response to the electronic processor 180 receiving the activationsignal from the electrical switch 215, the electronic processor 180activates the switching network 305 to provide power to the motor 170.The switching network 305 controls the amount of current available tothe motor 170 and thereby control the speed and torque output of themotor 170. The switching network 305 may include numerous FETs, bipolartransistors, or other types of electrical switches. For instance, theswitching network 305 may include a six-FET bridge that receivespulse-width modulated (PWM) signals from the electronic processor 180 todrive the motor 170.

The mode pad 270 is a user interface on the housing 105 power tool 100such that the mode pad 270 is accessible to the user. The mode pad 270includes a mode selection switch 275 and mode indicator LEDs 337 a-e. Inthe illustrated embodiment, the power tool 100 has five selectable modes(one, two, three, four, and adaptive), each associated with a differentone of the mode indicator LEDs 337 a-e. The mode selection switch 275 isa pushbutton that cycles through the five selectable modes upon eachpress (e.g., mode 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 1, 2, and so on). When a specific modeis selected, the associated mode indicator LED 337 lights up therebyindicating to the user the selected mode. For example, if the userselects mode one (“1”) using the mode selection switch 275, the LED 337a associated with mode one lights up. In other embodiments, the powertool 100 has more or fewer modes, and the mode selection switch 275 maybe a different type of mode selection mechanism such as, for example, aslide switch and/or a rotary switch.

The sensors 310 are coupled to the electronic processor 180 andcommunicate to the electronic processor 180 various signals indicativeof different parameters of the power tool 100 and/or the motor 170. Thesensors 310 include Hall-Effect sensors 310 a, current sensors 310 b,among other sensors, such as, for example, one or more voltage sensors,one or more temperature sensors, one or more torque sensors. EachHall-Effect sensor 310 a outputs motor feedback information to theelectronic processor 180, such as an indication (e.g., a pulse) when amagnet of the motor's rotor rotates across the face of that particularHall-Effect sensor 310 a. Based on the motor feedback information fromthe Hall-Effect sensors 310 a, the electronic processor 180 candetermine the position, velocity, and acceleration of the rotor. Inresponse to the motor feedback information and the signal from theelectrical switch 215 of the trigger 205, the electronic processor 180transmits control signals to control the switching network 305 to drivethe motor 170. For instance, by selectively enabling and disabling theFETs of the switching network 305, power received via the battery packinterface 320 is selectively applied to stator coils of the motor 170 tocause rotation of its rotor. The motor feedback information is used bythe electronic processor 180 to ensure proper timing of control signalto the switching network 305 and, in some instances, to provideclosed-loop feedback to control the speed of the motor 170 to be at adesired level.

The indicators 315 are also coupled to the electronic processor 180 andreceive control signals from the electronic processor 180 to turn on andoff or otherwise convey information based on different states of thepower tool 100. The indicators 315 include, for example, one or morelight-emitting diodes (LEDs), or a display screen. The indicators 315can be configured to display conditions of, or information associatedwith, the power tool 100. For example, the indicators 315 are configuredto indicate measured electrical characteristics of the power tool 100,the status of the power tool 100, the mode of the power tool 100(discussed in more detail below), etc. the indicators 315 may alsoinclude elements to convey information to a user through audible ortactile outputs.

As described above, the electronic processor 180 is electrically and/orcommunicatively connected to a variety of modules or components of thetool 100. In some embodiments, the electronic processor 180 includes aplurality of electrical and electronic components that provide power,operational control, and protection to the components and modules withinthe electronic processor 180 and/or power tool 100. For example, theelectronic processor 180 includes, among other things, a processing unit340 (e.g., a microprocessor, a microcontroller, or another suitableprogrammable device), a memory 345, input units 350, and output units355. The processing unit 340 includes, among other things, a controlunit 360, an arithmetic logic unit (“ALU”) 365, and a plurality ofregisters 370 (shown as a group of registers in FIG. 6). In someembodiments, the electronic processor 180 is implemented partially orentirely on a semiconductor (e.g., a field-programmable gate array[“FPGA”] semiconductor) chip, such as a chip developed through aregister transfer level (RTL”) design process.

The memory 345 includes, for example, a program storage and a datastorage. The program storage and the data storage can includecombinations of different types of memory, such as read-only memory(“ROM”), random access memory (“RAM”) (e.g., dynamic RAM [“DRAM”],synchronous DRAM [“SDRAM”], etc.), electrically erasable programmableread-only memory (“EEPROM”), flash memory, a hard disk, an SD card, orother suitable magnetic, optical, physical, or electronic memorydevices. The electronic processor 180 is connected to the memory 345 andexecutes software instructions that are capable of being stored in a RAMof the memory 345 (e.g., during execution), a ROM of the memory 345(e.g., on a generally permanent basis), or another non-transitorycomputer readable medium such as another memory or a disc. Softwareincluded in the implementation of the tool 100 can be stored in thememory 345 of the electronic processor 180. The software includes, forexample, firmware, one or more applications, program data, filters,rules, one or more program modules, and other executable instructions.The electronic processor 180 is configured to retrieve from memory andexecute, among other things, instructions related to the controlprocesses and method described herein. The electronic processor 180 isalso configured to store power tool information on the memory 345including motor operational parameters, general tool operational data,information identifying the type of tool, a unique identifier for theparticular tool, and other information relevant to operating ormaintaining the power tool 100. The tool usage information, such ascurrent levels, motor speed, motor acceleration, motor direction, numberof impacts, may be captured or inferred from data output by the sensors310. Such power tool information may then be accessed by a user with theexternal device 300. In other embodiments, the electronic processor 180includes additional, fewer, or different components.

The communication controller 330 is coupled to the electronic processor180. In the illustrated embodiment, the communication controller 330 isa wireless communication controller 330. In other embodiments, thecommunication controller 330 may be a wired communication controller 330including at least a port for receiving a communication connector of theexternal device 300. In the illustrated embodiment, the communicationcontroller 330 is located near the foot of the tool 100 to save spaceand ensure that the magnetic activity of the motor 170 does not affectthe wireless communication between the power tool 100 and the externaldevice 300. As a particular example, in some embodiments, the wirelesscommunication controller 330 is positioned under the mode pad 270.

As shown in FIG. 7, the wireless communication controller 330 includes aradio transceiver and antenna 375, a memory 380, a processor 385, areal-time clock 390, and a voltage sensor 392. The radio transceiver andantenna 375 operate together to send and receive wireless messages toand from the external device 300 and the processor 385 of the wirelesscommunication controller 330. The memory 380 can store instructions tobe implemented by the processor 385 of the wireless communicationcontroller 330 and/or may store data related to communications betweenthe power tool 100 and the external device 300 or the like. Theprocessor 385 of the wireless communication controller 330 controlswireless communications between the power tool 100 and the externaldevice 300. For example, the wireless communication controller 330buffers incoming and/or outgoing data, communicates with the electronicprocessor 180, and determines the communication protocol and/or settingsto use in wireless communications.

In the illustrated embodiment, the wireless communication controller 330is a Bluetooth® controller. The Bluetooth® controller communicates withthe external device 300 employing the Bluetooth® protocol. Therefore, inthe illustrated embodiment, the external device 300 and the power tool100 are within a communication range (i.e., in proximity) of each otherwhile they exchange data. In other embodiments, the wirelesscommunication controller 330 communicates using other protocols (e.g.,Wi-Fi, cellular protocols, a proprietary protocol, etc.) over differenttypes of wireless networks. For example, the wireless communicationcontroller 330 may be configured to communicate via Wi-Fi through a widearea network such as the Internet or a local area network, or tocommunicate through a piconet (e.g., using infrared or NFCcommunications). The communications via the communication controller 330may be encrypted to protect the data exchanged between a) the power tool100 and b) the external device 300 and/or a network from third parties.

The wireless communication controller 330 is configured to receive datafrom the power tool processor 180 and relay information to the externaldevice 300 via the transceiver and antenna 375. In a similar manner, thewireless communication controller 330 is configured to receiveinformation (e.g., configuration and programming information) from theexternal device 300 via the transceiver and antenna 375 and relay theinformation to the electronic processor 180.

The RTC 390 increments and keeps time independently of the other powertool components. The RTC 390 receives power from the battery pack 200when the battery pack 200 is connected to the power tool 100 andreceives power from the back-up power source 335 when the battery pack200 is not connected to the power tool 100. Having the RTC 390 as anindependently powered clock enables time stamping of operational data(stored in memory 345 for later export). The voltage sensor 392 monitorsthe voltage of the back-up power source 335.

When the wireless communication controller 330 establishes a wirelesscommunication link with the external device 300, the wirelesscommunication controller 330 obtains and exports tool usage data,maintenance data, mode information, drive device information, and thelike from the power tool 100. The exported information can be used bytool users or owners to log data related to a particular power tool 100or to specific job activities. The exported and logged data can indicatewhen work was accomplished and that work was accomplished tospecification. The logged data can also provide a chronological recordof work that was performed, track duration of tool usage, and the like.The wireless communication controller 330 also imports (i.e., receives)information from the external device 300 into the power tool 100 suchas, for example, configuration data, operation thresholds, maintenancethresholds, mode configurations, programming for the power tool 100, andthe like.

With reference to FIG. 8, modes one, two, three, four, and adaptive ofthe power tool 100 are each associated with a mode profile configurationdata block (a “mode profile”) 395 a-e, respectively, saved in a memory345 in a profile bank 400. Each mode profile 395 includes configurationdata that defines the operation of the power tool 100 when activated bythe user (e.g., upon depressing the trigger 205). For instance, aparticular mode profile 395 may specify the motor speed, when to stopthe motor, the duration and intensity of a work light, among otheroperational characteristics. The adaptive mode is associated with atemporary mode profile 395 e saved in the memory 345. In the adaptivemode, the user is able to configure the power tool 100 via an externaldevice 300, as is described in further detail below. Also stored in thememory 345 is tool operational data, which includes, for example,information regarding the usage of the power tool 100 (e.g., obtainedvia the sensors 310), information regarding the maintenance of the powertool, power tool trigger event information (e.g., whether and when thetrigger is depressed and the amount of depression).

The external device 300 may be, for example, a smart phone (asillustrated), a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a personal digitalassistant (PDA), or another electronic device capable of communicatingwirelessly with the power tool 100 and providing a user interface. Theexternal device 300 provides the user interface and allows a user toaccess and interact with tool information. The external device 300 canreceive user inputs to determine operational parameters enable ordisable features and the like. The user interface of the external device300 provides an easy-to-use interface for the user to control andcustomize operation of the power tool 100.

The external device 300 includes a communication interface that iscompatible with the wireless communication controller 330 of the powertool 100. The communication interface of the external device may includea wireless communication controller (e.g., a Bluetooth® module) or asimilar component. The external device 300, therefore, grants the useraccess to data related to the power tool 100, and provides a userinterface such that the user can interact with the controller of thepower tool device 100.

The external device 300 can also share the information obtained from thepower tool 100 with a remote server 405 connected by a network 410. Theremote server 405 may be used to store the data obtained from theexternal device 300, storing the information on the remote server 405allows a user to access the information from a plurality of differentlocations. In another embodiment, the remote server 405 may collectinformation from various users regarding their power tool device andprovide statistics or statistical measures to the user based oninformation obtained from different power tools. The network 410 mayinclude various networking devices (e.g., routers, hubs, switches,cellular towers, wireless connections, wired connections, etc.) forconnecting to, for example, the Internet, a cellular data network, alocal network, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the powertool 100 may be configured to communicate directly with the server 405through an additional wireless interface or with the same wirelessinterface that the power tool 100 uses to communicate with the externaldevice 300.

The external device 300 includes a memory 415 storing core applicationsoftware 420, tool profiles 425, temporary configuration data 430, toolinterfaces 435, tool data 440 including received tool identifiers 445,and received tool operation data 450. The external device 300 furtherincludes a processor 455, a touch screen display 460, and an externalwireless communication controller 465. The processor 455 and the memory415 may be part of a controller having similar components as electronicprocessor 180. The touch screen display 460 allows the external device108 to output visual data to a user and receive user inputs. Althoughnot illustrated, the external device 108 may include other input devices(e.g., buttons, dials, toggle switches, and a microphone for voicecontrol) and other user outputs (e.g., speakers and tactile feedbackdevices). Additionally, in some instances, the external device 300 has adisplay without touch screen input capability and receives user inputvia other input devices. The external device 300 communicates wirelesslywith the wireless communication controller 465, e.g., using a Bluetooth®or Wi-Fi® protocol. The external wireless communication controller 465includes two separate wireless communication controllers, one forcommunicating with the wireless communication controller 330 of thepower tool 100 (e.g., using Bluetooth® or Wi-Fi® communications) andanother for communicating with the server 405 (e.g., using Wi-Fi orcellular communications).

The core application software 420 is executed by the processor 455 togenerate a graphical user interface (GUI) on the touch screen display460 enabling the user to interact with the power tool 100 andcommunicate with the server 405. In some embodiments, a user may accessa repository of software applications (e.g., an “app store” or “appmarketplace”) using the external device 300 to locate and download thecore application software 420, which may be referred to as an “app.” Thetool profiles 425, tool interfaces 435, or both may be bundled with thecore application software 420 such that, for instance, downloading the“app” includes downloading the core application software 420, toolprofiles 425, and tool interface 435. In some embodiments, the app isobtained using other techniques, such as downloading from a websiteusing a web browser on the external device 300. As will become apparentfrom the description below, at least in some embodiments, the app of theexternal device 300 provides a user with a single entry point forcontrolling, accessing, and/or interacting with a multitude of powertools of different types. This approach contrasts, for example, withhaving a unique app for each tool type or for a small grouping ofrelated tool types.

In the illustrated embodiment, the external device 300 scans a radiowave communication spectrum used by the power tool(s) 100 and identifiesany power tool(s) 100 within range of the external device 300. As shownin FIG. 9, the external device 300 displays a list 467 of power tools100 that are within the communication range of the external device 300.The user then selects one of the power tools 100 to communicatively pairwith the selected power tool 100. To establish a wireless communicationlink between the selected power tool 100 and the external device 300,the external device 300 and the power tool 100 exchange identificationinformation. The identification information may include, for example, anidentification number for each of the power tool 100 and the externaldevice 300 to enable the devices to recognize each other. Theidentification information may also determine parameters for thecommunication between the selected power tool 100 and the externaldevice (e.g., frequency hopping algorithm, number of retransmissions,etc.).

Each type of power tool 100 with which the external device 300 cancommunicate includes an associated tool graphical user interface (toolinterface) stored in the tool interfaces 435. Once the external device300 and the power tool 100 establish a wireless communication link, thecore application software 420 accesses the tool interface 435 to obtainthe applicable tool interface for the type of power tool 100 selected.The touch screen display 460 then shows the applicable tool interface. Atool interface includes a series of screens enabling the user to obtainoperational data, configure the tool, transmit operating modes to thepower tool, and more. Since the power tool 100 has limited space foruser input buttons, triggers, switches and dials, the external device300 and the touch screen display 460 provide an extended user interfacefor the power tool 100, providing further customization andconfiguration of the power tool 100 than otherwise possible or desirablethrough physical user interface components on the power tool 100.

As described above, the power tool 100 can operate in four modes and anadaptive mode. The mode profile assigned to (e.g., or associated with)each operating mode of the power tool 100 can be set through theexternal device 300. When the power tool 100 is in modes one, two,three, or four, the user can view the mode profile assigned to each ofthe modes. For example, when the power tool 100 is in modes one-four,the external device 300 can display the mode profile associated with aselected mode as shown in FIG. 10. FIG. 10 shows that mode one isprogrammed as a self-tapping screw mode and shows the operationalparameters 468 associated with the self-tapping screw mode. While thepower tool 100 is in modes one-four, however, the user cannot change themode profile assigned to a particular mode on the power tool 100.

By contrast, when the power tool 100 is in the adaptive mode, the usercan view the mode profile assigned to each of the modes, change theparameters associated with each and/or any of the mode profiles assignedto the modes, assign a new mode profile to a mode on the power tool,and/or save a new mode profile. As shown in FIG. 11, when the power tool100 is in the adaptive mode, the external device 300 generates anddisplays a tool control screen 470 displayed to the user to select andchange the modes available on the power tool 100. The tool controlscreen 470 includes a plurality of mode profile buttons 475 (e.g., mode1, mode 2, mode 3, or mode 4) and a wireless communication indicator480. The wireless communication indicator 480 indicates to the user thatthe external device 300 is in communication with the power tool 100.While the power tool 100 is in the adaptive mode, the user can selectany one of the mode profile buttons 475. The currently selected modeprofile that is shown on the control screen becomes the temporaryprofile 395 e on the power tool 100. Additionally, when the power tool100 is in the adaptive mode, the power tool 100 is operated according tothe temporary profile 395 e. The source of the mode profile data in thetemporary profile 395 e (and what is being displayed on the externaldevice 300) varies. Initially, upon entering the adaptive mode via themode pad 270, the profile 395 a (associated with mode 1) is copied intothe temporary profile 395 e of the power tool 100. Thus, after a usercauses the power tool 100 to enter the adaptive mode using the mode pad270, the power tool 100 initially operates as if mode one was currentlyselected. Additionally, as the control screen 470 displays the profilesaved as the temporary profile 395 e, the profile 395 a that was justcopied to the temporary profile 395 e is shown on the external device300.

In some embodiments, another mode profile 395 (e.g., 395 b-d) is copiedinto the temporary profile 395 e upon first entering the adaptive modeand is provided (as the temporary profile 395 e) to the external device300 for populating a control screen (e.g., similar to the control screenshown in FIG. 10). In still other embodiments, the external device 300displays a default control screen with default profile data for theparticular type of power tool, and the external device 300 does notfirst obtain the profile data form the power tool 100. In theseinstances, the default profile is sent to the power tool and saved asthe temporary profile 395 e.

Further, assuming that the power tool 100 is in the adaptive mode, auser may select a profile type not currently assigned to any of themodes on the power tool 100. As shown in FIG. 11, the external device300 generates a list of mode profiles 477 a-e available to be assignedto the selected mode. These mode profiles can be assigned andre-assigned to different modes on the power tool 100. The externaldevice 300 updates the power tool 100 regarding which mode profiles areaccessed when a particular mode is selected on the power tool 100. Thepower tool 100 then operates according to the assigned mode profile forthe specific mode selected on the power tool 100.

For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the recording mode 477 e isselected and the temporary profile 395 e is then associated with therecording mode 477 e. With reference to the method 600 of FIG. 12, whichillustrates a method of transferring a recorded motor parameter from thefirst power tool to the second power tool, this selection andassociation is an example of receiving of a command to start a recordingmode at a first electronic processor of a first power tool (the powertool 100) (step 605). In other embodiments, the command to start therecording mode may include a selection of the recording mode through afirst mode pad (e.g., similar to the mode pad 270 of FIG. 6). While thepower tool 100 is in the recording mode 477 e, the power tool 100 beginsa recording session and records the operation of the power tool 100. Inthe illustrated embodiment, during the recording session, data from adesired motor parameter is measured, and the electronic processor 180 ofthe power tool 100 receives a measured parameter (e.g., corresponding tothe desired motor parameter) while the motor 170 of the power tool 100is operating (step 615). The measured parameter is also recorded fromthe start of the recording session until the end of the recordingsession, and a recorded motor parameter is thereby generated when thepower tool 100 is in the recording mode (step 620). According toembodiments of the invention, the motor parameter signals that aremeasured and recorded during the recording mode may include PWM dutycycle (amount of trigger pull), the speed of the motor, the torque ofthe motor, the power to the motor, the number of impact “blows,” andother motor parameters. Further details regarding recording motorparameters while in the recording mode, including starting and stoppingthe recording, are provided below. In the illustrated embodiment, theuser can set parameters that affect the operation of the power tool 100while in the recording mode. For example, the user may set the maximumspeed of the motor to be 300 rpm, such that during the recordingsession, the power tool 100 does not exceed the maximum speed of themotor of 300 rpms. In some embodiments, the user can change theparameters associated with the power tool while the power tool 100 is inthe middle of the recording session (FIGS. 23A-B).

During the recording of the motor parameter, the external device 300 maygenerate a display to indicate to the user that the power tool 100 iscurrently recording the motor parameter. The display generated by theexternal device 300 may include for example a bar that is filled as thepower tool 100 continues to record, a display of the recorded motorparameter, and/or may include text reading, for example, “recording.”

In some embodiments, at the end of the recording session, the power tool100 transmits the recorded operation of the power tool to the externaldevice 300 such that, instead of the external device 300 sending theoperational parameters to the power tool 100, the external device 300receives a recorded operation of the power tool 100 from the power tool100. For example, in step 625, the electronic processor 180 controls thetransceiver 375 of the power tool 100 to transmit the recorded motorparameter to the external device 300. The recorded motor parameter isthen received by the external device 300 (step 630). Once the externaldevice 300 receives the recorded operation of the power tool 100, a usercan click a save button also located on the tool control screen, assigna name to the recorded operation of the power tool 100, and associatethe recorded operation of the power tool 100 with one of the modes asshown in FIG. 21. In the illustrated embodiment, the power tool 100exits the recording mode when the recorded motor parameter is saved as anew mode profile and the external device 300 can re-direct the user tothe control screen 470 shown in FIG. 11. If the user does not wish tosave the recorded motor parameter, the user can discard the recordedportion and record again, or the user can navigate back to the controlscreen shown in FIG. 11 or another control screen displayed by theexternal device 300.

In some embodiments, the external device 300 then updates the power tool100 of the assignment of a mode profile (in this example, the recordedoperation of the power tool) with mode 1 of the power tool 100 throughthe wireless communication link. Thereafter, the power tool 100, whenoperating in mode 1, replicates the operation of the power tool duringthe recording mode.

As noted, a user can save a new mode profile incorporating the recordedmotor parameter. The new mode profile may be named by a user via theexternal device 300 and then exported and saved on the server 405 in thetool profile bank and/or saved locally on the external device 300 (e.g.,in the tool profiles 425). Thereafter, a user can connect the externaldevice 300 to the power tool 100 or to another power tool similar topower tool 100, retrieve the saved new mode profile include the recordedmotor parameter, and then transmit and assign the saved new mode profileto the selected power tool. For example, the external device 300transmits (via the external wireless communication controller 465) therecorded motor parameter (e.g., as part of a profile) to a second powertool (step 635). In some embodiments, the external device 300 saves therecorded motor parameter locally (e.g., in the memory 415) and providesthat recorded motor parameter to the second power tool before (orwithout) sending the recorded motor parameter for storage on the server405 and later retrieval. With reference to FIG. 13, a system 650including the external device 300, the power tool 100, and an example ofa second power tool 655 that receives the recorded motor parameter fromthe external device 300 is illustrated. The second power tool 655 issimilar to the power tool 100 in function and structure as describedwith respect to FIGS. 1-8 (including, for example, the components asillustrated in FIGS. 6-7), but only select features of the power tool655 are illustrated in FIG. 13. Like parts between the power tool 100and the second power tool 655 are given like names, but with updatedlabels. More particular, the second power tool 655 includes a processor660, a mode pad 665, a wireless communication controller 670, and amemory 580 having tool operational data 685 and a profile bank 690. Theprofile bank includes profiles 695 a-d and a temporary profile 695 e.

The second power tool 655 receives the recorded motor parameter at asecond transceiver of wireless communication controller 670 (step 640).The recorded motor parameter may be assigned to a mode of the secondpower tool 655 and then played back, as described elsewhere herein withrespect to the similarly configured power tool 100 (see, e.g., FIGS.15-17).

Further still, a user having a different external device (e.g., externaldevice 510-1), which is similar to the external device 300 (e.g., hassimilar components as previously described with respect to the externaldevice 300), may retrieve the saved new mode profile from the server 405or from the external device 300. The different external device can thentransmit and assign the saved new mode profile to the power tool 100 orto another other power tool. Accordingly, a user can record a motorparameter and create a new profile for use on the power tool 100 as wellas on other tools, and for sharing with other users to use on theirother tools.

The recording mode may operate in various ways. For example, afterselecting the recording mode 477 e on the external device 300, the usermay use different methods to start and end the recording session (i.e.,indicate when to start and stop recording), and the power tool 100 mayadditionally be configured to start and/or stop the recording sessionbased on different factors. FIG. 14 illustrates an exemplary operationof the power tool 100 during the recording mode. In the illustratedembodiment, the recording mode is a timed mode. In other words, once therecording mode is initiated (e.g., by selecting the recording mode 477 eon the control screen 470), the recording session is configured to lasta specific time period 495. In the timed mode, data for the desiredmotor parameter is measured (e.g., the measured motor parameter isgenerated) whether or not there is an activation signal from the triggermechanism 195. Accordingly, during periods in which there is no triggeractivation that causes activation of the motor 170, the data for thedesired recorded motor parameter is measured and recorded even if themeasured data results in values that do not cause activation of themotor.

As illustrated in FIG. 14, when the recording mode is a timed mode, thepower tool 100 begins recording the usage of the motor parameter at astart 700 of the recording mode (i.e., the recording session starts atthe same time the recording mode is entered), even if no activationsignal from the trigger 205 is received at the start 700 of therecording mode (see section 705). When the trigger assembly is activatedat 710, the motor parameter signal 715 that is changed thereby ismeasured and recorded during the recording of the usage. The resultingrecorded motor parameter signal 720 is stored and used during playbackas described herein below. The recorded motor parameter signal 720 maybe stored in its entirety including the blank or null portions for whichno motor control parameter was manipulated or recorded during therecording mode or maybe truncated to the portion 725 for which the motorcontrol parameter signals 715 were recorded during the recording mode.The truncation may occur after recording for storage and later playbackor may be truncated during the playback mode.

FIG. 15 illustrates a pulse diagram 730 for an operation of theelectronic processor 180 during a recording mode according to anotherembodiment of the invention. In the embodiment of FIG. 15, the recordingmode comprises a timed mode, with a recording session having a duration495, in which data from the motor parameter signal 715 is measured andrecorded from the start of the trigger activation at 710 until the endof the recording session. As shown in FIG. 15, section 732 illustrates atime period during which the power tool 100 is in the recording mode,yet the electronic processor 180 does not record the motor parametersignal 715 because the trigger 205 is not yet activated. In this mode,data for the motor parameter signal 715 is measured beginning from whenthe trigger is first activated at 710 (e.g., marking the start of therecording session) and continues whether or not there is an activationsignal from the trigger 205 until the end of the recording session(e.g., the end of the time period 495). Accordingly, during periods inwhich there is no trigger activation (e.g., time period 735) that causesactivation of the motor 170 once the recording session has begun, thedata for the desired recorded motor parameter is measured and recordedeven if the measured data results in values that do not cause activationof the motor 170.

As illustrated in FIG. 14, the start of recording mode begins therecording session (i.e., recording the usage of the motor parametersignal 715) at the first activation of the trigger 205 at 710. When thetrigger 205 is activated at 710, the motor parameter signal 715 that ischanged thereby is measured and recorded during the recording of theusage. Since recording continues after the first trigger activation at710 even when there is no activation of the trigger (e.g., during period735), subsequent trigger activation pulses 740 and 745 are alsorecorded, which may occur through a user's preference of pulsing animpact tool, for example, after seating a fastener. The resultingrecorded motor parameter signal 720 is stored and used during playbackas described herein below. The recorded motor parameter signal 720 maybe stored in its entirety including the blank or null portions for whichno motor control parameter was manipulated or recorded during therecording session or may be truncated to the portion 725 for which motorcontrol parameter signals 715 were recorded during the recordingsession. The truncation may occur after recording for storage and laterplayback or may be truncated during the playback of the recorded motorparameter.

FIG. 16 illustrates a pulse diagram 750 for an operation of theelectronic processor 180 during a recording mode according to anotherembodiment of the invention. According to the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 16, the recording mode comprises a trigger-recording mode in whichdata from the motor parameter signal 715 is measured and recorded fromthe start of the trigger activation at 710 (i.e., the start of therecording session) until the end of the single trigger activation eventat 755 (i.e., the end of the recording session). In this mode, data forthe motor parameter signal 715 is measured beginning from when thetrigger 205 is first activated at 710 and terminates when the activationsignal from the trigger 205 is first ended at 755. Accordingly, the datafor the motor parameter signal 715 is measured and recorded only duringthe first, single trigger activation signal.

As illustrated in FIG. 16, while in the recording mode, the recordingsession begins at the first activation of the trigger assembly at 710.When the trigger assembly is activated at 710, the motor parametersignal 715 that is changed thereby is measured and recorded during therecording of the usage. Since the recording session stops after thefirst trigger activation, subsequent trigger activation pulses are notrecorded. The resulting recorded motor parameter signal 720 is storedand used during playback as described herein below.

As discussed above, the power tool 100 transmits the recorded motorparameter signal 720 to the external device 300 for storage as a newmode profile. In some embodiments, the wireless communication controller330 transmits the recorded motor parameter signal 720 to the externaldevice 300 in real-time. In other words, as the electronic processor 180records the motor parameter signal 715, the wireless communicationcontroller 330 transmits the recorded motor parameter signal 720 to theexternal device 300, such that at the end of the recording session, therecorded motor parameter signal 720 is recorded at both the electronicprocessor 180 and at the external device 300. In such embodiments, theexternal device 300 may generate, for example, a graph display graphingthe recorded motor parameter signal 720 over time.

In other embodiments, the wireless communication controller 330transmits the recorded motor parameter signal 720 to the external device300 at the end of the recording session (e.g., at the end of the timeperiod 495 and/or at the end of the trigger signal at 755 of FIG. 16).In such embodiments, once the recording session ends, the wirelesscommunication controller 330 automatically transmits the recorded motorparameter signal 720 to the external device 300. The external device 300then saves the recorded motor parameter signal 720 as a new mode profile425 available to the power tool 100.

In yet other embodiments, the wireless communication controller 330transmits the recorded motor parameter signal 720 to the external device300 when the wireless communication controller 330 receives a requestfrom the external device 300 for the recorded motor parameter signal720. In such embodiments, the electronic processor 180 stores therecorded motor parameter signal 720. The user then establishes acommunication link between the power tool 100 and the external device300 and requests, through an input to the external device 300, that therecorded motor parameter signal 720 be transmitted to the externaldevice 300. The wireless communication controller 330 then transmits therecorded motor parameter signal 720 to the external device 300, whichthen saves the recorded motor parameter signal 720 as a new mode profile425.

In some embodiments, the wireless communication controller 330 cantransmit the recorded motor parameter signal 720 in each of the methodsdescribed above (e.g., in real-time, after recording session ends, andupon receipt of a request signal from the external device 300). In suchembodiments, the user may select when and how the recorded motorparameter signal 720 is transmitted to the external device 300 byadjusting settings of the recording mode (e.g., using the externaldevice 300).

Once the recorded motor parameter is saved as a new mode profile and isassigned to a mode on the power tool 100, the power tool 100 can operateaccording to the recorded motor parameter signal 720. FIG. 17illustrates a pulse diagram 760 for an operation of the electronicprocessor 180 according to the recorded parameter signal 720 accordingto one embodiment of the invention. As an example, the recorded motorparameter signal 720 of FIG. 15 is used for the pulse diagram 760 ofFIG. 17, and is assigned to mode one of the power tool 100. Theelectronic processor 180 is placed in mode one via the mode pad 270.While the power tool 100 is in mode one 765 but does not begin executingthe recorded motor parameter signal 720 until activation of the trigger205 begins at 770.

As illustrated, activation of the trigger at 770 begins execution (orplayback) of the recorded motor parameter signal 720 according to whatwas recorded and stored during the recording mode of pulse diagram 730.While the trigger activation pulse 770 does not match the executedrecorded motor parameter signal 720, execution of the recorded motorparameter signal 720 allows for repeatability of the recorded parametereven when the trigger activation signal 770 does not match. Accordingly,a different trigger activation signal profile nevertheless causes therecorded motor parameter signal 720 to be executed. In this manner, therecorded motor parameter signal 720 may be reliably repeated for taskssuch as motor line assembly scenarios or other such tasks wherepredictability of tool use is desired. As illustrated, when therecording time period 495 is ended, the executed recorded motorparameter signal 720 is also ended, and even though trigger activationsignal 770 illustrates that the trigger mechanism 195 is still beingactivated, the tool motor 170 is not activated since the recorded motorparameter signal 720 has ended. The recorded motor parameter signal 720is not executed again until re-activation of the trigger mechanism 195 asubsequent time during playback mode 765 in one embodiment.

According to another embodiment of the invention, the recorded motorparameter signal 720 is repeatedly executed as long as the triggermechanism 195 is activated. In this manner, for example, a recordedparameter signal (e.g., the recorded motor parameter signal 720) thatoscillates the motor parameter between two or more values may continueto oscillate the motor parameter for a longer duration of the triggeractivation. As such, a short recorded signal may be extended and beexecuted many times repeatedly during a long trigger activation time.

FIG. 18 illustrates a pulse diagram 780 for an operation of theelectronic processor 180 according to the recorded motor parametersignal 720 and in mode one according to another embodiment of theinvention. As an example, the recorded motor parameter signal 720 ofFIG. 15 is used for the pulse diagram 780 of FIG. 18 and the recordedmotor parameter is saved as the mode profile for mode one. Theelectronic processor 180 enters mode one 765 but does not beginexecuting the recorded motor parameter signal 720 until activation ofthe trigger begins at 770.

As illustrated, however, at the end of a first trigger activation time785 that may be caused, for example, by the user releasing the triggermechanism 195, playback of the recorded motor parameter signal 720 ishalted when the trigger mechanism 195 is released. When the triggermechanism 195 is re-activated during a subsequent trigger activationsignal 790, the recorded motor parameter signal 720 is played back fromthe beginning during a second trigger activation time 795 even though itwas halted during the previous execution. In this manner, playback ofthe recorded motor parameter signal 720 is re-initiated from thebeginning each time the trigger mechanism 195 is re-activated.

FIG. 19 illustrates a pulse diagram 800 for an operation of theelectronic processor 180 according to the recorded motor parameter whensaved as the mode profile for mode one, according to another embodimentof the invention. As an example, the recorded parameter signal 720 ofFIG. 16 is used for the pulse diagram 800 of FIG. 19. The electronicprocessor 180 enters mode one 765 but does not begin executing therecorded motor parameter signal 720 until activation of the triggerbegins at 805. A direction signal from the direction switch 210illustrates that the tool 100 is in a forward mode direction 810 at thebeginning of the playback mode 765.

Similar to that illustrated in FIG. 18, at the end of a first triggeractivation time 815 that may be caused, for example, by the userreleasing the trigger mechanism 195, playback of the recorded motorparameter signal 720 is halted when the trigger mechanism 195 isreleased. For example, the user may stop the trigger activation 805 inorder to switch the direction switch 210 to the reverse direction mode820 in order to engage a fastener to back it out of its current positionprior to re-engaging the fastener to drive it forward. During thereverse mode 820, the recorded motor parameter signal 720 is notexecuted, but instead, the trigger activation signal 825 during a time830 controls the motor 170 according to a normal operating mode (e.g.,not based on the record motor parameter signal 720) such that the motorparameter signal 835 executed during the reverse mode 820 directlycorresponds with the trigger activation signal 825. While playback mode765 is illustrated as continuing to be active throughout the directionchange into the reverse mode 820, playback mode 765 may be deactivatedas illustrated in phantom at 837 while the reverse mode 820 is engaged.When the forward mode 810 is re-engaged via direction switch 210 and thetrigger mechanism 195 is re-activated during a subsequent triggeractivation signal 840, the recorded motor parameter signal 720 is playedback from the beginning during a second trigger activation time 845 eventhough it was halted during the previous execution. In this manner,playback of the recorded motor parameter signal 720 is re-initiated fromthe beginning each time the trigger mechanism 195 is re-activated.

FIG. 20 illustrates a method executed by the power tool 100 and theexternal device 300 to enter the recording mode, exit the recordingmode, and operate the power tool 100 according to the recorded motorparameter. As illustrated in FIG. 20, first the wireless communicationcontroller 330 establishes a communication link with the external device300 (at step 900). The wireless communication controller 330 and theexternal device 300 exchange identification and handshake information todefine the parameters for communication between the wirelesscommunication controller 330 and the external device 300 (step 905). Theuser then enters the adaptive mode via the mode pad 270 at step 910. Theuser then selects the recording mode profile 477 e at the externaldevice 300 (step 915). Once the tool 100 operates in the recording mode,the electronic processor 180 starts the recording session automaticallyor after a predetermined period of time (e.g., three (3) seconds) (step920). During the recording session, the electronic processor 180 recordsthe desired motor parameter as described above (step 925). The powertool 100 then detects the end of the recording session. In theillustrated embodiment the recording session ends after a predeterminedtime duration of trigger 205 inactivity expires. For example, theelectronic processor 180 determines whether a trigger 205 activationsignal has been received (step 930). If a trigger activation signal hasbeen received, the electronic processor 180 continues to record themotor parameter. If, on the other hand, the electronic processor 180does not receive a trigger activation signal, the electronic processor180 proceeds to determine whether a predetermined time duration (e.g.,five (5) seconds) has passed without a trigger activation signal (step933). If the electronic processor 180 determines that the predeterminedtime duration has expired and no trigger activation signals arereceived, the electronic processor 180 ends the recording session (step935); otherwise, the electronic processor 180 continues the recordingsession and continues to record the desired motor parameter (step 925).In some embodiments, as described with respect to FIGS. 14-16, therecording session ends after the specified time duration 495 expires. Insuch embodiments, steps 930-935 are bypassed and the electronicprocessor 180 monitors the end of the time duration 495 instead.

Once the recording session has ended, the wireless communicationcontroller 330 transmits the recorded motor parameter signal 720 to theexternal device 300 in the methods described above (step 940). When thewireless communication controller 330 transmits the recorded motorparameter signal 720 to the external device 300, the external device 300stores the recorded motor operation (e.g., the recorded motor parametersignal 720) as a new mode profile as shown in FIG. 21. The externaldevice 300 may prompt the user to name the recorded motor operation sothat the recorded motor operation can be stored as a new mode profile.By naming the recorded motor operation and activating the save actuator953, the user may access the stored recorded motor operation at a futuretime. The user can also assign the recorded motor operation (in thisexample named “Deck Mode”) as one of the modes (e.g., mode one)accessible from the power tool 100 (step 945) such that the recordingaction does not have to be repeated at a future time. When the powertool 100 is then selected to operate in mode one, the electronicprocessor 180 executes the recorded motor parameter 720 upon activationof the trigger 205 as described with respect to FIGS. 17-19 (step 950).

In the method described with respect to FIG. 20, the power tool 100continues recording until the end of the recording session, which iscaused by the lack of trigger activation signals in a predetermined timeduration (e.g., five (5) seconds). The power tool 100 then automaticallyends the recording session, exits the recording mode, and prompts theuser to save the recorded motor parameter as a mode profile as shown inFIG. 21. In other embodiments, such as the method of FIG. 22, the userinteracts with the external device 300 to mark the beginning and end ofthe recording session.

FIG. 22 illustrates a method of the operation for the power tool 100according to another embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 22,the power tool 100 establishes a communication link with the externaldevice 300 (step 900), exchanges identification and handshakeinformation with the external device 300 to secure the communicationlink (step 905), and enters the adaptive mode at step 910. The user thenselects the recording mode using the external device 300 (step 915). Inthis embodiment, rather than automatically starting the recordingsession, the user activates a “start recording” actuator 917 on theexternal device 300 to indicate the beginning of the recording session,as shown in FIG. 23A (step 955). The external device 300 automaticallyshows the “start recording” actuator 917 after the user selects therecording mode 477 e. In response to receiving the user actuation, theexternal device 300 sends a start recording signal (e.g., a startrecording command) to the power tool 100. The electronic processor 180receives the start recording signal through the wireless communicationcontroller 330. The user then operates the power tool 100 as desiredwhile the electronic processor 180 records the desired motor parameteras described above (step 960). As discussed above and shown in FIGS.23A-B, the user can change some of the parameters of the power tool 100that can affect the operation of the power tool 100 while the power tool100 is in the recording mode and/or in the recording session. The userthen activates a “stop recording” actuator 963 on the external device300 (FIG. 23B) to indicate the end of the recording session (step 965).In response to receiving the user actuation, the external device 300sends a stop recording signal (e.g., a stop recording command) to thepower tool 100. The electronic processor 180 receives the stop recordingsignal through the wireless communication controller 330. In response,the electronic processor 180 ends the recording session and stopsrecording the motor parameter (step 967). In some embodiments, the useractivates the “start recording” actuator 917 to initiate the recordingsession, but the recording session automatically stops as described withrespect to FIG. 20 or because the recording mode (e.g., the recordingsession) is a timed mode with a predetermined time duration (e.g., timeduration 495). In such embodiments, step 965 is bypassed.

Once the recording session has ended, the wireless communicationcontroller 330 transmits the recorded motor parameter signal 720 to theexternal device 300 as described above (step 970). Also, once therecording mode has ended, the user is prompted to save the recordedmotor parameter as a new mode profile and assign the mode profile to amode on the power tool, for example, mode one (step 975). When the powertool 100 is placed in mode one via the mode pad 270, the electronicprocessor 180 executes the recorded motor parameter 720 upon activationof the trigger 205 as described with respect to FIGS. 17-19 (step 980).

In some embodiments, the power tool 100 also includes a record andplayback selector 985 on the power tool 100. The record and playbackselector 985 allows a user to assign a “record and playback” modeprofile to one of the four modes of the power tool 100 and then controlwhen the power tool 100 switches from a recording mode to a playbackmode from the power tool 100 itself. In embodiments including the recordand playback selector 985, the power tool 100 can operate in a playbackmode in which the desired motor parameter is replicated after the motorparameter has been recorded. For example, if the desired motor parameteris the motor current, the power tool 100 records the current provided tothe motor while the power tool 100 is in the recording mode (e.g., thepower tool 100 records that at 0.05 seconds, the motor current is 1 Amp,at 0.1 seconds, the motor current is 1.2 A, etc.). Then, during theplayback mode, the power tool 100 replicates the operation profilegenerated during the recording mode such that the power tool 100replicates the operation of the power tool 100 during the recordingmode.

With reference to FIG. 2, the record and playback selector 985 isdisposed between the exterior surface 155 and the interior surface 160of the wall 150 and within a pocket 990 defined by the wall 150. In theillustrated embodiment, the pocket 990 is located proximately to thecavity 162, and the record and playback selector 985 is accessible fromthe top surface 120 of the housing 105. In other embodiments, the recordand playback selector 985 is accessible via another surface of thehousing, such as one of the side surfaces 130, 135 or the rear surface145.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 24A-B. The record and playbackselector 985 is a multi-layer electrical switch including a label layer995, a push-button 1000, a printed circuit board layer 1005, andlight-emitting diodes (LEDs) 1010, 1015. The label layer 995 includesmode indicators 1020, 1025. Mode indicator 1020 indicates to theoperator, for example, that a recording mode is selected, and modeindicator 1025 indicates to the operator, for example, that a playbackmode is selected. When both indicators 1020 and 1025 are off, the recordand playback mode is not selected by the power tool 100 and the powertool 100 operates in a different mode instead (e.g., a self-tappingscrew mode). The push-button 1000 is an electrical push-button, and inthe illustrated embodiment, the push-button 1000 is a low-profilepop-switch. In some embodiments, the printed circuit board layer 1005includes a controller having a similar construction as electronicprocessor 180.

In embodiments in which the power tool 100 includes the record andplayback selector 985, the power tool 100 receives an indication fromthe record and playback selector 985 regarding the mode of the powertool 100. As shown in FIG. 25, during operation, the power tool 100establishes a communication link with the external device 300 (step900), exchanges identification and handshake information with theexternal device 300 to secure the communication link (step 905), andassigns the record and playback mode as a mode selectable by the powertool 100 (e.g., assign the record and playback mode to mode 1) at step1027. The user then selects the record and playback mode using the modeselector switch 275 on the power tool 100 (step 1029). Then, the userutilizes the record and playback selector 985 to control when to switchthe power tool 100 from the recording mode to the playback mode. TheLEDs 1010, 1015 illuminate the mode indicators 1020, 1025, or indicators1020,1025 are illuminated, to indicate to the operator the currentlyselected operating mode of the motor 170.

As shown in FIG. 25, at step 1030, while the power tool 100 operates inthe record and playback mode, the electronic processor 180 receives auser selection via the record and playback selector 985. The userselection being indicative of the recording mode. The record andplayback selector 985 sends a first mode signal to the electronicprocessor 180 when the user selects the recording mode (step 1035). Theuser then selects a FORWARD direction, a REVERSE direction, or NEUTRALusing the direction switch 210. The direction switch 210 sends adirection signal to the electronic processor 180. The electronicprocessor 180 then operates the motor 170 according to the triggeractivation and records the desired motor parameter as described above(step 1040). In the embodiment of FIG. 25, the recording session startsas soon as the power tool 100 enters the recording mode. When the userwishes to end the recording session and exit the recording mode, theuser selects the playback mode using the record and playback selector985. The electronic processor 180 receives the user selection indicativeof the playback mode through the record and playback selector 985 (step1045). The record and playback selector 985 sends a second mode signalto the electronic processor 180 when the user selects the playback mode(step 1050). Once the electronic processor 180 determines that the powertool 100 is in the playback mode (step 1053), the electronic processor180 controls the motor 170 according to the recorded motor parameter(step 1055). Once the recording mode ends (i.e., in response toactuation of the record and playback selector 985), the wirelesscommunication controller 330 transmits the recorded motor parameter tothe external device 300 for storage (step 1060). In such embodiments,the user can select when the recording mode is established and when therecording mode ends to allow playback of the recorded motor parameter.

When the wireless communication controller 330 transmits the recordedmotor parameter signal 720 to the external device 300, the externaldevice 300 stores the recorded motor operation (e.g., the recorded motorparameter signal 720) as a new mode profile and can assign the modeprofile to one of the modes as described with respect to FIG. 21.

FIG. 26 illustrates a cordless, hand-held impact wrench 1100 includingthe mode pad 270. The impact wrench 1100 includes an upper main body1104, a handle portion 1108, a battery pack receiving portion 1112, themode pad 270, an output drive device or mechanism 1116, aforward/reverse selection button 210, a trigger 205, and air vents 1128.The impact wrench 1100 also includes a worklight 1132. The battery packreceiving portion 1112 receives a slide-on battery pack (not shown). Theouter portions or housing of the impact wrench 1100 (e.g., the main body1104 and the handle portion 1108) are composed of a durable andlight-weight plastic material. The drive mechanism 1116 is composed of ametal (e.g., steel) as is known in the art.

As shown in FIG. 27, the power tool 1100 includes the mode pad 270. Themode pad 270 is a user interface on the foot 1147 of the power tool 100.The mode pad 270 includes a mode selection switch 275 and mode indicatorLEDs block 1180 having mode indicators 1185 a-e. Each mode indicator1185 a-e includes one of the LEDs 337 a-e (see FIG. 6) and an associatedone of indicating symbols 1195 a-e (e.g., “1”, “2”, “3”, “4”, and aradio wave symbol). When an LED 337 is enabled, the associatedindicating symbol 1195 is illuminated. For instance, when LED 337 a isenabled, the “1” (indicating symbol 1195 a) is illuminated.

In the illustrated embodiment, the power tool 1100 has five selectablemodes (one, two, three, for, and adaptive), each associated with adifferent one of the mode indicators 1185 a-e. the mode selection switch275 is a pushbutton that cycles through the five selectable modes uponeach press (e.g., mode 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 1, 2, and so on). The adaptivemode is represented by the indicating symbol 1195 e (the radio wavesymbol). In the adaptive mode, the user is able to configure the powertool 1100 via an external device 300, as is described above. In otherembodiments, the power tool 1100 has more or fewer modes, and the modeselection switch 275 may be a different type of switch such as, forexample, a slide switch and/or a rotary switch.

One of skill in the art will recognize that embodiments of the inventionmay be incorporated into tools such as power drills, impact drivers,power saws, angle drivers, and other tools incorporating auser-activated trigger mechanism. One skilled in the art will alsorecognize that the trigger activation signals, while illustrated asbeing discrete steps, are merely examples and that other continuoustypes of trigger activation signals are contemplated herein.

Thus, the invention provides, among other things, a power toolconfigured to enter a recording mode via an external device, record amotor parameter, and transmit the recorded motor parameter to theexternal device. Various features and advantages of the invention areset forth in the following claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of operating power tools, the methodcomprising: receiving, at a first electronic processor of a first powertool, a command to start a recording mode; receiving, at the firstelectronic processor, a measured parameter from a sensor of the firstpower tool while a first motor of the first power tool is operating;generating a recorded motor parameter by recording, on a first memory ofthe first power tool, the measured parameter when the first power tooloperates in the recording mode; transmitting, via a first transceiver ofthe first power tool, the recorded motor parameter; receiving, at anexternal device, the recorded motor parameter; transmitting, via theexternal device, the recorded motor parameter to a second power tool;and receiving, via a second transceiver of the second power tool, therecorded motor parameter.
 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising:associating, at the second power tool, the recorded motor parameter witha selectable mode of the second power tool.
 3. The method of claim 2,further comprising receiving, at a second electronic processor of thesecond power tool, a selection of a first mode of operation of thesecond power tool via a mode profile button; and controlling, via thesecond electronic processor, a second motor of the second power tool tooperate according to the recorded motor parameter when the second powertool operates in the first mode of operation.
 4. The method of claim 1,further comprising: sending, via a device transceiver of the externaldevice, the recorded motor parameter to a remote server; receiving, viathe device transceiver of the external device, the recorded motorparameter from the remote server prior to transmitting the recordedmotor parameter to the second power tool.
 5. The method of claim 1,wherein receiving the command to start the recording mode includesreceiving, at the first electronic processor the first power tool, thecommand to enter the recording mode from the external device via thefirst transceiver.
 6. The method of claim 5, further comprisingentering, at the first power tool, an adaptive mode, based on anactuation of a mode profile button of the first power tool, to enableexecution of the command to start the recording mode.
 7. The method ofclaim 1, further comprising: assigning, via graphical user interface ofthe external device, the recorded motor parameter to a first mode of thefirst power tool; receiving, via the first transceiver of the firstpower tool, the recorded motor parameter associated with the first modefrom the external device; and operating the first motor according to therecorded motor parameter when the first power tool operates in the firstmode.
 8. A power tool system comprising: a first power tool including afirst motor, a sensor coupled to the first motor and configured tomeasure a parameter of the first motor, a first electronic processorcoupled to the first motor and the sensor, the first electronicprocessor configured to receive a command to start a recording mode, andgenerate a recorded motor parameter by recording the measured parameterwhile the first motor is operating and the first power tool is in therecording mode, and a first transceiver coupled to the first electronicprocessor, and configured to transmit the recorded motor parameter to anexternal device; the external device in communication with the firstpower tool, and including a device transceiver configured to receive therecorded motor parameter from the first power tool, and transmit therecorded motor parameter to a second power tool; and the second powertool in communication with the external device, and including a secondtransceiver configured to receive the recorded motor parameter from theexternal device, and a second electronic processor configured to storethe recorded motor parameter.
 9. The system of claim 8, wherein thesecond power tool includes a second motor and a mode profile button andwherein the second electronic processor is configured to associate therecorded motor parameter with a first mode of the second power tool,receive a selection of the first mode via the mode profile button, andoperate the second motor according to the recorded motor parameter whenthe second power tool operates in the first mode.
 10. The system ofclaim 8, wherein the external device includes a device processorconfigured to associate the recorded motor parameter with a mode profilename, transmit, via the device transceiver, the recorded motor parameterand the mode profile name to a remote server for storage at the remoteserver, and receiving a user selection of the mode profile name, andreceiving, from the remote server and via the device transceiver, therecorded motor parameter in response to the user selection of the modeprofile name.
 11. The system of claim 8, wherein the first transceiveris configured to receive the command to start the recording mode fromthe external device.
 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the first powertool includes a mode profile button, and wherein the first electronicprocessor is configured to enter an adaptive mode, based on an actuationof the mode profile button, to enable execution of the command to startthe recording mode.
 13. The system of claim 8, wherein the firsttransceiver is configured to receive a stop recording command from theexternal device to stop recording the measured parameter.
 14. A powertool comprising: a motor; a sensor coupled to the motor and configuredto measure a parameter of the motor; a transceiver; an electronicprocessor coupled to the motor, the sensor, and the transceiver, theelectronic processor configured to receive, from an external device viathe transceiver, a command to start a recording mode; generate arecorded motor parameter by recording the measured parameter while themotor is operating and the power tool is in the recording mode; andtransmit, via the transceiver, the recorded motor parameter to theexternal device.
 15. The power tool of claim 14, wherein the recordedmotor parameter is a first recorded motor parameter, wherein thetransceiver is further configured to receive a second recorded motorparameter recorded on a second power tool.
 16. The power tool of claim15, further comprising a mode profile button configured to select afirst mode of the power tool, and wherein the electronic processor isconfigured to associate the second recorded motor parameter with thefirst mode of the power tool, receive a selection of the first mode ofthe power tool via the mode profile button, and operate the motoraccording to the second recorded motor parameter when the power tooloperates in the first mode.
 17. The power tool of claim 14, wherein theelectronic processor is further configured to start recording themeasured parameter in response to receiving, by the transceiver, arecord command from the external device while the power tool is in therecording mode.
 18. The power tool of claim 14, further comprising amode selection mechanism configured to select a mode of operation from aplurality of modes, wherein the electronic processor is configured toreceive an activation of the mode selection mechanism to select a firstmode for operation, and operate the motor according to the recordedmotor parameter while the power tool operates in the first mode.
 19. Thepower tool of claim 14, further comprising a mode profile button, andwherein, based on an actuation of the mode profile button, theelectronic processor is configured to enter an adaptive mode to enableexecution of the command to start the recording mode.
 20. The power toolof claim 14, wherein the transceiver is configured to receive a stoprecording command from the external device, and wherein the electronicprocessor is configured to stop recording the measured parameter inresponse to receiving the stop recording command.